BOSS Steve Claridge says he wants experienced striker Robbie Matthews to pen a new deal at Salisbury FC.

Matthews, 34, is currently weighing up his career options but has agreed to join the Whites for pre-season.

He was involved in their 4-0 win over Downton on Thursday night in which Steve Walker grabbed a brace and Amesbury Town trialists Cameron Roach and Tyler Brockway found the target.

"I like Robbie," said Claridge who brought the 6ft 4in striker - nicknamed Mooncat - back to the Ray Mac at the beginning of last season.

"He's been thinking about what he wants to do but I hope he decides to come back permanently. He had some injury problems last season but if we can manage things with him, he definitely gives us something different up front and is also good cover at the back.

"He's got a demanding full time job and I know how difficult it can be for players with the standards and commitment I ask of them but it would be good if he could be part of things."

Meanwhile, three players have decided they are unable to commit to the Whites' forthcoming Evo-Stik Southern League Division One South and West campaign, which starts at home to Evesham United on Saturday, August 6 (3pm).

Josh Warren, formerly with AFC Portchester, Joe Sanger and Seb Dawes, both of Bemerton Heath Harlequins, have decided to withdraw from the pre-season programme.